HowWeWork

Because your business is unique, so will be each Profit Improvement Programme. In order to deliver a step change in performance and profitability, however, we will need to implement a continuous programme of assessment, training, development and support. Here is an example of how it can work:

1) Needs analysis & attitude survey

We will need to understand the strengths and weaknesses of both individuals and groups and have a clear understanding of where we are now versus where we want to be. Here are just some of the options for this process:

Senior management review

We will discuss the current strategy and challenges of your business, identify areas of opportunity, confirm training requirements and agree resources. We can then summarise areas for development and opportunities for profit improvement.

This is a senior management meeting usually with the heads of each function.

One to one attitudes survey

We will gain an insight into the attitudes, understanding and motivation of employees and identify opportunities for performance improvement. One to one, usually 20 minute discussions with a broad cross-section of employees at all levels, enables an objective view of where performance and profit opportunities lie.

Company attitudes survey

Those who do not participate in individual discussions will have the opportunity to express their opinions and ideas via email. The survey will be simple, clear and concise whilst encouraging openness and suggestions for profitable growth.

2) Programme proposal

It is vital that the Profit Improvement Programme is designed specifically to meet the needs of your business and the proposal will include specific and measurable objectives. By listening to you, your people and your customers, a bespoke programme can then be devised. The details of timings, participants, objectives, content and deliverables will be agreed. By now we will all have a clear understanding of what is required to improve results and profitability and have a plan for achievement.

3) Programme launch

A 'top down' approach will be used in communicating the programme objectives. A detailed plan will advise participants of the format and content of the programme which will raise awareness and interest levels. Mentor/s for individuals and/or the group will be assigned at this stage.

We will then distribute Joining Instructions with a Pre Course Learning Contract and Self Assessment well in advance. The Joining Instructions let delegates know the dates, timings, objectives, outline content and preparation required. The Pre Course Learning exercises ask delegates to assess their own current performance against a range of key competences, and give their view on relevant business challenges.

Once these have been completed and returned, and we have assessed individuals current strengths and weaknesses, we will finalise content, write material, exercises and role plays and complete all necessary preparation. The programme will then be off and running.

4) Workshop delivery

Our delivery process hinges on the principles of Accelerated Learning, eliminating the boredom factor by involving people throughout the workshop.Their total participation and involvement from the outset includes simulation and syndicate exercises, live action role plays and best practice sessions.This helps relate new skills to the real world, reinforces key learning points and speeds up the process of performance improvement. Handout materials and aide memoirs are provided as a portable reminder of key learnings.

Critical to every course is the preparation and commitment to objective setting through the development of Action Plans.This again speeds up the process of turning theory into action and results.

5) Follow up support

Management review

Following the workshop, we review individual and group performance with the management team, agreeing follow up actions, mentoring support and the next steps for development.Management support and commitment to the programme is critical to its success and we encourage management participation throughout the process including attendance at training workshops.

Focus on results

Turning theory into practice will require continuous review of results against objectives that have been written into Action Plans. Achievements will be recognised via the PiP progress system. Follow up meetings will be used to reinforce learning, resolve difficult problems and update Action Plans.

Snapshot reminders

Snapshot reminders of key skills or actions can be included in such forms as phone calls, emails or text messages, usually on a weekly basis. These act as prompts for action.

Hot Line support

Urgent or specific business issues can be addressed by using the Hot Line support facility. By telephone or email, advice can be given, often on the spot. Opportunities for profit improvement will not be missed and the confidence of individuals in their decision making and personal performance will grow.

Overall, our methodology can be described as detailed, client specific and dedicated to achieving targeted results.